Obi Formally Joins ADC, Says He’ll Challenge Electoral Act 2026 In Court
Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has formally registered as a
member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stating that he intends to challenge aspects of the
recently passed Electoral Act 2026 in court over concerns about its implications for future elections.
Obi completed his party registration on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at his ward in Agulu, Anaocha Local
Government Area of Anambra State during the launch of the ADC’s membership mobilisation and
registration exercise in the state.
Speaking at the event in Awka, Obi said he would seek judicial interpretation of certain provisions in the
new electoral law, which he believes could affect the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the 2027
general elections.
According to him, some sections of the Electoral Act 2026 may allow undue influence in party processes
and election management.
He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to focus on its constitutional
mandate of conducting elections and avoid interfering in internal political party affairs.
“A referee does not determine the rules, choices or line-up of players in teams or clubs,” Obi said while
addressing party members during the registration exercise, stressing that the electoral body should
maintain neutrality in electoral matters.
The event also marked the official commencement of ADC’s membership mobilisation and revalidation
exercise across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State, aimed at strengthening the party’s
grassroots presence.
Several political figures attended the programme, including Senator Victor Umeh, who represents
Anambra Central in the Senate, and other party leaders who encouraged supporters to register and
mobilise new members ahead of upcoming elections.
Obi’s formal registration follows his earlier decision to join the ADC as part of a broader opposition
coalition preparing for the 2027 presidential election. Party officials said the mobilisation exercise is expected to expand the party’s membership base in the state and strengthen its political structures nationwide.
The Electoral Act 2026 has generated debate among opposition figures and political groups, with some
arguing that certain provisions could influence the conduct of future elections, while others maintain
that concerns should be addressed through legislative or judicial processes.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
